Neurological Exams: Nerve Deficits
Part 3 of 3
Muscle Strength and Tone
Measuring muscle strength and tone is another way to determine if nerve deficit exists. To evaluate muscle strength the patient may be asked to step up on a stool, stand on their heels then the toes, hop in place, perform knee bends, and grip an item in each hand. Muscle strength is graded and recorded in the patient’s chart.
Imaging Studies
MRI and/or CT scans of the spine can be ordered to help the spine specialist make the correct diagnosis.
Conclusion
The neurological examination, along with a detailed mechanical examination (movement of the arms, legs, and trunk), can greatly help the physician in making the correct diagnosis. The findings of the examination are then correlated with the history of the patient’s ailment and diagnostic studies to make the correct diagnosis. Once the diagnosis is made, appropriate treatment is initiated. This usually consists of non-surgical measures but if those fail, or occasionally initially, surgical intervention is considered.
Measuring muscle strength and tone is another way to determine if nerve deficit exists. To evaluate muscle strength the patient may be asked to step up on a stool, stand on their heels then the toes, hop in place, perform knee bends, and grip an item in each hand. Muscle strength is graded and recorded in the patient’s chart.
| Grade | Muscle Activity |
| Zero | No movement |
| 1 | Trace of muscle contraction |
| 2 | Active movement without gravity |
| 3 | Active movement against gravity |
| 4 | Active movement against gravity/resistance |
| 5 | Normal |
The physician tests muscle tone by passively flexing and extending
the arms and legs. Normal muscle tone elicits slight resistance to passive motion.
Other movements test for proximal (trunk) and distal (distant) weakness. Muscle
symmetry is also observed.
Neurological Tests
If warranted, the spine specialist may order specific neurological studies such
as a Nerve Conduction Study (NCS) or Electromyogram (EMG). These tests measure
nerve performance.
Imaging Studies
MRI and/or CT scans of the spine can be ordered to help the spine specialist make the correct diagnosis.
Conclusion
The neurological examination, along with a detailed mechanical examination (movement of the arms, legs, and trunk), can greatly help the physician in making the correct diagnosis. The findings of the examination are then correlated with the history of the patient’s ailment and diagnostic studies to make the correct diagnosis. Once the diagnosis is made, appropriate treatment is initiated. This usually consists of non-surgical measures but if those fail, or occasionally initially, surgical intervention is considered.
Updated on: 02/06/10
